Episode 11

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Published on:

29th Sep 2025

11: Are We Killing the Good Bacteria in Our Mouths? – The Untold Truth About the Oral Microbiome with Dr. Rob & Tami

Could the bacteria in your mouth actually be protecting your heart and lowering your blood pressure?

In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob and Tami explore the complex ecosystem of the oral microbiome, focusing on nitrate-reducing bacteria and their role in both oral and systemic health. They examine the influence of diet, hygiene, and genetics on microbial balance and the implications of oral care products—like chlorhexidine and potassium nitrate—on beneficial bacteria. The conversation highlights why the oral microbiome is more than just “good vs. bad” bacteria, how nitrate reduction contributes to nitric oxide production and cardiovascular health, and what it means for future product development. The episode also discusses the scientific challenges in developing dental caries vaccines and previews what’s coming in part two.

🔥 Highlights

↠ What the oral microbiome is, and how it differs from the general biome

↠ The role of nitrate-reducing bacteria in nitric oxide production and systemic effects like blood pressure regulation

↠ How food choices, like leafy greens and beets, influence microbiome function

↠ The concept of dysbiosis and its connection to conditions like caries, gingivitis, and bad breath

↠ Why some oral diseases (like dental caries) have proven difficult to address via vaccines

↠ The science and limitations behind past caries vaccine development efforts

↠ Discussion on chlorhexidine (found outside the US), its broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects, and cosmetic downsides (e.g., staining)

↠ Introduction to the nitrate–nitrite–nitric oxide pathway and how it supports commensal bacteria

↠ Analysis of clinical studies showing varied nitrate effects across age groups

↠ Debunking the myth that all conventional oral products “destroy” the microbiome

↠ How commensal vs. opportunistic bacteria shift under certain stimuli (sugar, poor hygiene) 

↠ Why oral health product developers must consider site-specific bacterial behavior in the mouth

↠ Teaser for Part 2: Biofilm behavior and how common mouthwashes impact microbiome health

🌐 Resources & Links

🌐 Dr. Karlinsey’s Website: customdentalformulations.com/meet-dr-karlinsey

 📄 ResearchGate Profile: Robert Karlinsey

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About the Podcast

Dental Formulator's Playbook
The Dental Formulator’s Playbook is where science meets strategy in the world of oral health innovation. Hosted by Dr. Rob Karlinsey, a seasoned dental researcher and independent formulator, this podcast is your behind-the-scenes pass to what really goes into creating cutting-edge dental products.

Whether you're a dentist, a dental brand, or just someone curious about how toothpaste, rinses, and other oral care products are developed, you'll find practical insights and real-world takeaways in every episode. Dr. Karlinsey keeps it straightforward and engaging—no fluff, just clear, thoughtful explanations based on years of experience in the lab and the industry.

This show is all about helping dental professionals and product developers think differently, make better decisions, and stay ahead of the curve. If you care about science, results, and doing things the right way, you're in the right place.

About your host

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Robert Karlinsey

Dr. Robert L. Karlinsey is a scientist and formulator with almost 20 years’ experience in dental research. He earned a BS in Physics (University of Scranton) and PhD in Chemical Physics (Indiana University), with postdoctoral work in physical chemistry (Indiana University). As a visiting assistant research professor at the Indiana University School of Dentistry, his research led to an impactful encounter with Dr. George Stookey, and shortly thereafter, the formation of Indiana Nanotech, LLC (now known as Custom Dental Formulations, LLC), of which he spearheaded all research and small-scale manufacturing efforts. Dr. Karlinsey is the inventor of Nanotech’s functionalized tricalcium phosphate systems, which continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales for a major dental manufacturer. As Principal Investigator, his work has received significant funding through Federal (National Institutes of Health), State (Indiana and Texas), and industry grants and contracts. His research in patented calcium phosphate technologies continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales. Previously, Dr. Karlinsey has served as Chief Scientific Officer at Therametric Technologies, Inc, and adjunct professor of chemistry at the University of Indianapolis.

Dr. Karlinsey addresses clients’ needs in preventive and cosmetic dentistry, including fluoride- and fluoride-free remineralization, antiplaque/gum health, whitening systems, and more. He is actively involved in clinical and laboratory research designs and performance-backed, customized oral care formulation solutions. And, whenever possible, he favors natural, nature-derived, and/or sustainably sourced ingredients